Virginia Fishery Resource Grants available for commercial fishers

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science’s Marine Advisory Program is now accepting applications for the Virginia Fishery Resource Grant Program (VFRGP), which funds innovative projects aimed at protecting and improving Virginia’s marine fisheries.

The program is designed to support commercial fishers and others in the industry who have ideas to enhance fisheries but lack the resources to test new approaches. Applications will be reviewed competitively for technical merit and their ability to address program priorities.

Funding areas include:

• Fisheries equipment and gear — environmentally friendly designs, reducing by-catch, and improved handling methods.
• Environmental pilot studies — projects to restore or create habitat, prevent impairment, or reduce impacts from fishing or aquaculture.
• Aquaculture and mariculture — developing permit criteria, increasing investment returns, and introducing new species for commercial culture.
• Seafood technology and utilization — creating value-added products, expanding underused resources, improving packaging and handling, and boosting returns for the seafood industry.

Anyone actively involved in Virginia’s marine fishing industry, including aquaculture and seafood processing, is eligible to apply. Each applicant may submit up to two proposals.

Applications must be received by January 5, 2026, by mail or email. For details, including application materials and submission guidelines, visit www.vims.edu/map/frg. Applicants may also email [email protected] or call (804) 684-7742 for assistance.